Israel and Palestine

Fighting in Gaza has led to calls for the suspension of hostilities, whether in the form of humanitarian pauses or broader ceasefires. But what are they and what is required for them to be effective?

Who has been taken, what were Hamas’ motives, how common is mass hostage-taking and is there hope for the safe return of hostages?

Football in the Arab world has long served as a forum for debate about autocratic power and violence, and it has encouraged social solidarity.

In spite of its diplomatic activism, Ankara is careful that its role will not overshadow that of the Arab Gulf states

The laws of armed conflict provide clear protections for hospitals and medical personnel. Both Hamas and Israel are obliged to respect their special status, says the former surgeon-general of the UK armed forces.

While Iran has denied involvement in the Hamas attacks on Israel, its backing of a regional ‘axis of resistance’ means it will have a major influence on whether the conflict spreads.

The war serves Russia’s interests by weakening US support for Ukraine. But Moscow’s need for closer relations with the Global South has badly damaged relations with Israel.

Keir Starmer wants Britain to re-engage in the region. A dedicated envoy or minister will be vital.

Catastrophe is imminent for civilians trapped in Gaza. States cannot provide the medical care needed without significant risk. The UN must step up and coordinate efforts, regardless of public rows with Israel.

Only by addressing the suffering on all sides can we understand what is happening – and what can come next.

But China’s ‘anti-Western neutrality’ will have little more benefit in Israel than it has in Ukraine.

Episode 44 of our weekly podcast discusses President Biden’s visit to Israel and the prospects of an Israeli ground invasion of Gaza.

The war has raised questions about US diplomatic efficacy in the Middle East and its commitment to the region.

What does victory look like for Israel, and is it even achievable?

Episode 43 of our weekly podcast discusses the attacks by Hamas on Israel and the Israeli military response now underway in Gaza.

The conferences showed cross-party consensus on Israel, NATO, Ukraine and China. Differences may only emerge from a second Trump presidency.

Regional players have spent the last five years finding pragmatic solutions to end conflict and forge connections. Now they must address the issue they have sought to avoid.

Israel has been taken by surprise despite warnings by communities on Gaza’s border. Serious questions will be asked about Israel’s preparedness.

The attack will set back Israel’s plans for normalization with its neighbours – and could have implications for the war in Ukraine.

An agreement would represent an important victory in the run up to 2024 elections. But Biden must take the time needed to build durable bipartisan support.

A historic opportunity exists to promote multilateral cooperation in the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region, building on recent political de-escalation. With the right design, a new forum could succeed where previous initiatives have failed.

Israel hopes the corridor announced at the G20 will facilitate normalized relations with Saudi Arabia. Riyadh doesn’t see it that way.

As dust storms in the Middle East become increasingly frequent and intense, adversaries must cooperate to address the causes.

Antony Loewenstein argues persuasively that Israel profits from surveilling Palestine, but should have spoken more to those it’s watching, writes Mairav Zonszein.

Episode 27 of our weekly podcast examines the Syrian regime with signs that governments in the Middle East are prepared to engage with Bashar al-Assad again.

With consistent and long-term support from the US, the Abraham Accords could have a transformative impact on Middle East economic cooperation and regional security.

The scores of protestors taking to the streets to protest the Netanyahu government’s attempts at a judicial coup may become agents for far bigger change.

Football in the Arab world has long served as a forum for debate about autocratic power and violence, and it has encouraged social solidarity.

How did leading academics and policymakers think about and impact imperialism and decolonization from the 1920s to 1970s?

Examining the crossover between water security and climate change with the next two COPs taking place in regions with a history of being water stressed.

The US president was focused on repairing ties with traditional regional partners, but he also aimed to redefine the contours of future US regional cooperation.

A new podcast series explores the shifting political dynamics of the Arab world.

The UK has axed its Middle East and North Africa minister. This will leave the Foreign Office stretched thin and constrain Britain’s global influence.